The following lists are intended as a community resource. Please note that we do not endorse or recommend any particular service providers. Please let us know if you have any updates or if you know of other resources not represented here by emailing [email protected].

Assistive Technology Funding Resources

• National Funding
• Washington Funding
• Oregon Funding

Assistive Technology Assessment Providers

• Washington Assessment Providers
• Oregon Assessment Providers

Assistive Technology Selection Checklist

Assistive Technology Funding Resources

National Funding

Nationwide Loan Program Directory

Assistive Technology Financial Loan Funds have been established in 32 states, the District of Columbia, and three U.S. territories. Each one is different but they all help people with disabilities access affordable credit in order to purchase the AT needed to improve quality of life and outcomes with respect to education, employment, and independent living.

U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs – SHA and SAH Grants

Individuals with qualifying service-related disabilities who own or will own their home may be eligible for a Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) or Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grant through the VA.

• Call 800-827-1000 to apply over the phone, or 877-827-3702 to speak with an SAH staff member.

Gary Sinise Foundation

For U.S. veterans and first responders with service-related injuries, illnesses, and/or age-related limitations, the Gary Sinise Foundation may also be an option for financial assistance with home modifications, adapted vehicles, and mobility devices. To learn more, visit this link or request more information about assistance here.

Multiple Sclerosis Foundation

The Multiple Sclerosis Foundation may help locate, partially fund, or provide full funding for a wide range of devices as needed for personal independence. To apply, visit this link.

Travis Roy Foundation

The Travis Roy Foundation provides grants for assistive technologies to spinal cord injury survivors with paraplegia and quadriplegia. For specific eligibility requirements and to apply, visit their online application.

The Tyler Schrenk Foundation

The Tyler Schrenk Foundation has two types of grants available for individuals to get the assistive technology they need. Since 2013, the Tyler Schrenk Foundation has provided over $110,000 in assistive technology to more than 60 individuals. To learn more and apply, visit https://www.thetsf.org/apply-1.

 

Assistive Technology Assessment Providers

AT Selection Checklist

Identify what the user wants to do and options for accomplishing these tasks, from no-tech and low-tech to high-tech.

Start with the task, not the technology. If an individual with vision loss wants to read, the solution might be a CCTV magnifier or it might be a scanner and a computer with software such as Zoomtext or Jaws for Windows. It could also be Books on Tape and a friend or family member willing to share an afternoon helping with correspondence and bills. The “best” solution depends upon the person and their environment.

Research assistive technology options:

Your goal is not to become an “expert” but to learn about options. Start with catalogues, websites and the and the Washington Assistive Technology Act Program (WATAP, 1-800-214-8731). They can provide the names of knowledgeable vendors and service providers. You can also search online databases like AbleData.

User-centered selection – questions to ask:

Think first and foremost about what will work for the user. No device is right for everyone. Here are some questions to ask:

• What are the user’s preferences and desires? Is he/she comfortable with technology? Would a light tech or no tech solution work better? Will the individual actually use the device?
• Does the person have more than one functional limitation? And if so, how will these be accommodated?
• Is the individual stable or can you anticipate changes in functional capabilities?
• In what environments will the device be used and what supports will the person have in those environments?
• Will the device need to be moved from location to location? Portability is often an important consideration.

Focus on the details, details, details!

If the goal, for example, is selection of a wheelchair accessible vehicle – don’t stop there. You need to know if the wheelchair user will be the driver or the passenger or both? Will the individual be traveling with someone or will they need to be able to get in and out of the vehicle without assistance. Is the chair user done growing or or do you need to account for room to grow when selecting a particular vehicle. These are just a few of the questions that will impact the choice of modifications.

Get an AT assessment:

The goal is to identify the best AT options taking into account the individual’s preferences and the environment in which the AT will be used.

• Assessments should be done by an individual with specialized training and expertise such as a physical, speech or occupational therapist, or a rehabilitation engineer. The best assessments offer an opportunity to try out the equipment by borrowing or renting it and also consider non-AT solutions.
• Users should plan an active role in the assessment. Be clear about what works and what doesn’t down to the tiniest detail! Otherwise, you may not be happy with the results.

If possible—try before you buy:

If you’re in Washington State, contact WATAP for device demos and/or loans, or check out their Device Lending Library and WA State AT Classifieds online. They loan out devices for an average of five weeks for a small lending fee, which varies by product. Call toll free at 1-800-214-8731.

If you’re in Oregon, contact Assistive Technologies, Inc. at their Salem center at 503-361-1201 to learn more about device demonstrations, or browse their Device Loan Library through the Oregon Statewide Assistive Technology Program here.

Choosing among options:

Consider the top four criteria identified by the National Council on Disability are: effectiveness, affordability, operability, and dependability.

Here are a few questions to think about:

• How easy is the device to learn to use and to use?
• Will you need to invest additional dollars in training or other services?
• How effective and reliable is the device?
• How long is the warranty and is an extended warranty available?
• Are upgrades covered (sometimes called “software maintenance agreements”)?
• Is information available on the costs and expected frequency of repairs?
• Where will you have to send the device if it needs repair?
• Will the vendor provide a replacement for your device while yours is being repaired?
• Does the vendor sell more than one brand?
• Do you like the vendor?
• Which device do you like the best?
• Do you enjoy using the device? Is it fun?
• Is there anything about the AT that bugs? you? Talk to the vendor about this and/or keep looking!
• Do you expect your capabilities to change in the future? Can the AT accommodate those changes?
• How much do the different options cost? Are the price differences worth it?

Remember that high-tech is not always best. High-tech devices typically cost more and require more skill and training than low-tech. Start with easier-to-use, low-tech devices; then make the transition to more complex devices, as needed and appropriate.

Identify necessary services:

• Training can be especially important. Ask how much time the vendor is willing to commit to set-up and training. Where can you go for additional training?
• Find out what the vendor will do if there is a problem with the AT device. The vendor should be willing to repair or replace the device within a reasonable period of time or give you your money back.
• Don’t forget about warranties. Whenever possible, get extended warranties that cover the time you expect to use AT. Find out how much-extended warranties cost and whether they include upgrades.
• Insurance! Make sure the AT is covered for theft or damage by your renters, home or car insurance.

Research funding options:

• Traditional funding sources have particular guidelines and criteria that must be met. Obtain a written copy & address each criterion in your request. Follow all agency procedures including required pre-authorization. Be patient and be prepared to appeal!
• Consider alternative funding options, such as leasing, assistive technology (AT) loan funds, PASS plans, IDA programs, and used and donated equipment.

Take the plunge – make the purchase:

If possible, try to negotiate with the vendor for a 30- or 60-day trial period – allowing return of the item without penalty during this time period!

After you buy, use immediately:

Once you have purchased the AT, make an effort to use it immediately. If you have problems, contact the vendor. They may be able to help you figure out how to use your AT and/or refer you to other resources or users for advice!